Horn of Africa (HoA) Groundwater for Resilience Project (P174867) IGAD Implementation Support Mission (May 27th -31st, 2024) Aide-Memoire A. INTRODUCTION 1. A World Bank (WB) team1 conducted a project Implementation Review Support Mission for the Horn of Africa (HoA) Groundwater for Resilience Project (GW4R) with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) from May 27th-31st, 2024. The mission was conducted in Nairobi, Kenya, to facilitate regional participation in a training and knowledge sharing workshop planned as part of the mission. This Aide Memoire captures mission findings and next steps. 2. The objective of the mission was to conduct implementation review and support mission for the project and provide support to the regional training workshop organized by IGAD2. The specific objectives of the mission included: (i) the progress of the project’s Work Plan and budget execution; (ii) updates on the status of priority procurement packages and next steps, (iii) progress towards regional studies, capacity building, and data sharing protocol, (iv) Third Party Monitoring (TPM) work plan review, and (v) ESF and M&E progress. The first three days of the mission consisted of a regional training workshop on the topic of enhanced groundwater management and collaboration in the Horn of Africa. Participating Member States (MS), Ethiopia, Somalia and Kenya, along with UN partners, and international experts, discussed technical specifications, environmental and social considerations, gender issues, capacity building, and other best practice and innovations to promote and strengthen the projects’ implementation. The main outputs are country-specific Action Plans outlining the detailed activities to advance regional learning agenda, institutional capacity and collaboration around sustainable groundwater management and use in the HoA. 3. The mission team would like to express its sincere appreciation to all participants and especially to Dr. Ibrahim Mohamed Ahmed, IGAD, GW4R Project Coordinator, and the team of specialists representing IGAD. The summary of key findings and agreed actions are available in Annex 1, and the full list of IGAD mission participants is provided in Annex 2. B. OVERALL PROJECT STATUS 4. The regional Horn of Africa Groundwater for Resilience Program (GW4R) was approved by the World Bank Board of Directors on June 1st 2022 (Table 1). Financing Agreements (FA) have been signed with all participating countries. Countries are advancing in the process of site selection for the investments. 1 The mission was led by Victor Vazquez (Sr. Water Specialist, TTL), Noosha Tayebi (Sr. Water Resources Management Specialist, Co-TTL), Irene Rehberger Bescos (Water Resources Management Specialist, Co-TTL), Wendwosen Feleke (Sr. Water and Sanitation Specialist, Co-TTL), Amanuel Teshome (Water specialist), James Origa (Water Supply and Sanitation Specialist), Mi Lin (Water Specialist), Tesfa Teferi (Program officer, Consultant), Cliff Muriithi Nyaga (Water Specialist, Consultant), Vanessa Sigrid Tilstone (Social Specialist, Consultant), Charles Gilman (CIWA Coordinator, ET Consultant), Marcus Wijnen (Sr. Water Specialist, Consultant), Seifu Kebede Gurmessa (Sr. Groundwater Specialist, Consultant), and Laura Lahoz Gonzalez (Consultant). 1 Table 1. Key information and ratings of the project Project Development Objective (PDO): To increase the sustainable access and management of groundwater in the Horn of Africa’s borderlands Key Project Data Project Performance Ratings Approval date: June 1, 2022 Previous Current Effectiveness date: July 29, 2022 (next ISR) Closing date: December 31, 2028 Progress towards PDO MS MS Mid-term Review: November 2024 Overall implementation MS MS Net Commitment: US$ 10M Component 1 Disbursement amount (As of May 30/25): US$ 1.533M Component 2 MS MS Component 3 Financial Management MS S Project Management MS MS Procurement MS MS Safeguards / ESF MS MS Monitoring and Evaluation S S Rating: HS= Highly Satisfactory; S=Satisfactory; MS=Moderately Satisfactory; MU= Moderately Unsatisfactory, U=Unsatisfactory; HU=Highly Unsatisfactory C. OUTCOMES OF THE MISSION Summary of Key Issues 5. The mission discussed the progress towards project’s objective, noting that most aspects are on track although some challenges remain. These include: 1) Budget adjustment considering the cost overrun due to regional event and impact of exchange rate; 2) Projection of budget and list of upcoming activities to evaluate the current challenge regarding deficit; 3) Adjustment in procurement planning regarding the Joint Regional Studies (JRS) implementation?; 4) Revision of Environmental and Social documents (e.g. The Grievance Mechanism for project workers and quarterly reports to be updated with further information); 5) Review of the status of Regional Groundwater Network and the actual participation of the Member States; 6) Mapping of the objective of the regional Groundwater Information System (GWIS) compared to other existing data platforms (e.g., Gafa, National datasets); 7) The capacity building plans to be developed based on plans already established by each Member States (MSs); 8) Preparation of a proposal for the next regional event planned for November 2024, and to be led by IGAD. The IGAD Water forum will be moved to May 2025. Implementation Progress Component 1: Strengthening Regional Capacity and Information for Sustainable Groundwater Management 6. Status of component 1 activities, including the network of groundwater centers, regional GWIS, trainings, and Joint Regional Study (JRS). For the National groundwater centers, IGAD has delivered all the necessary equipments to the MSs in Jan 2024. Coordination between IGAD and MSs will be critical for continued implementation of the activities (per approved concept note) for the GWIS activity. The structure of the regional GWIS was presented by the IGAD consultant during the IGAD Regional event (May 27-29). 60 % of the system has been completed and its capability ranges from storing raw borehole attributes to overlying maps and borehole monitoring record, etc. Further improvements are needed to seek synergies with other datasets (e.g. Gafa, National datasets) and populating the database system with raw data, maps, reports, etc. Coordination is also needed with UNESCO, providing support to enhance the GWIS, to agree on the expected outputs of the harmonization of the 2 hydrogeological and geological maps. The need to populate the IGAD GWIS with aquifer information emulating the IGRAC portal for selected strategic aquifers was highlighted during the meeting. Trainings on resilient borehole and groundwater data have been conducted in Ethiopia and Somalia, and the sessions for Kenya will be conducted during the week of June 17th and June 24th, 2024. Bank team will assist with the capacity building plan development by soliciting the existing national capacity building plans for each country to help with the harmonization. The implementation of JRS on aquifer recharge is expecting some delays. The process initiated in April 2024 but after retraction of 2 of the 4 selected candidates (the international IGAD consultant and the local consultant for Somalia), these positions have to be re-advertised. The ToR of new consultants has been shared with the WB for review and will be submitted for NO by June 7th. Component 2: Promoting Regional Integration and Collaboration 7. Component 2 activities are making progress with the need for more engagement of teams from project members. IGAD will finalize the final report and conduct validation workshop by end of June for the harmonized guideline for the design and construction of resilient boreholes. The inception report of the Feasibility study on Dawa aquifer has been submitted for WB review in mid-May. IGAD will take efforts to engage the National Focal Group (NFG)s on this work and will map out relevant stakeholders in the next NFG meeting. The consultant has just requested the necessary data for the study, which are to be provided by the MSs through IGAD. Two additional procurement processes for transboundary aquifer (TBA) feasibility studies (in the Shabelle and the Northern Basement aquifers) are underway. For Shabelle, the report of the technical proposals will be shared by the WB in first week of June and for the Norther Basement aquifer, RFP has been shared with shortlisted firms and reports will be shared with the WB for NO by end of June. The results of these FS are expected to feed into the GWIS. IGAD will need to expedite procurement processes in this component to ensure timely disbursement and implementation. Component 3: Project Coordination, Management, and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), including Third- Party Monitoring 8. IGAD has made steady progress in component 3 especially on onboarding of the Third-Party Monitoring (TPM) Agent. The TPM contract is in place and IGAD is managing the TPM contract with planning meetings with TPM coordinators and coordination for site visits. As per request of the MSs, IGAD will provide a letter to each country on TPM and the list of the TPMA personnel to facilitate TPM activities and logistics. The TPM focal persons from each MS convened during the IGAD regional learning event. Summary of quarterly reports will be prepared by TPMA to update the relevant progress. 9. The Regional Learning workshop (May 27-31) was completed successfully demonstrating IGAD’s leading role in fostering regional learning and transboundary collaboration on groundwater development and management. More than 100 participants attended the event, including technical project staff at both the national (PIU/PCU) and local level (Sub-PIU) from the three participating countries, international groundwater experts and researchers, as well as the representatives of UNESCO, UNDP, and UNICEF, and Non-governmental organizations. Through the three-day intensive discussions, the project team focused on strengthening regional collaboration, discussed some of the challenges faced, and agreed on the next steps which is documented in country action plans. Key issues discussed include: (i) solutions to accelerating progress in regional collaboration; (ii) improving capacity on key technical and E&S; (iii) features of groundwater information system; (iv) challenges related to groundwater salinity; (v) use of the MIS application, (vi) climate resilient designs; (vii) gender issues, among others. A project newsletter prepared in advance was distributed during the event. This newsletter aims to enhance the knowledge and monitor the critical project issues. Real-time surveys (using Poll Everywhere) were conducted every day (See some of the survey results in Annex 5). 10. The Mission reemphasized the need to better articulate the capacity building efforts being undertaken under the GW4R Program umbrella, at both the regional and the national levels. The Capacity Building Program developed for Somalia was shared during the regional learning event. The Bank team will take 3 a facilitation role in harmonizing capacity building plans from MSs and assisting with alignment of such with IGAD’s regional capacity building plans. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) 11. The WB team has organized a series of technical trainings (including presentations and demonstrations during the regional event) to capacitate IGAD’s PIU staff and Country PIU staff in the project’s MIS. The training includes data collection forms, dashboard utilization, and verification and validation of data on Kobo toolbox. It is expected to actively engage the project team in understanding and using the system at its full capacity. This tool will also provide important information for TPM related activities. The WB team also worked closely with the IGAD M&E specialist to prepare template for the CIWA progress report. Based on the surveys conducted during the regional event, Bank team also highlighted the need to identify the gaps in gender issues and leverage the existing M&E system to promote gender equality and empowerment. Procurement 12. A sustainable progress in execution of procurement plan, but with some delays. As such, the performance rate will remain as MS. The mission discussed with IGAD on progress of procurement processing and contract management. It was noted that the major contracts (particularly TPM and 3 feasibility studies for aquifers) are either under implementation or at an advanced stage of selection. The 4 contracts account for more than 20 % of the total financing. IGAD was also advised to maintain diligent oversight of the remaining contracts to ensure their timely processing. WB highlighted the need to expedite existing and future procurement processes, particularly on reducing evaluation times. 13. Continued capacity building on procurement and update of STEP. The Bank continued its support and delivered a 2-day training on STEP in March 2024. IGAD is expected to improve data recording in the system. To strengthen project impact on effective groundwater contracting, a tailored training based on Fidic regulations was delivered on May 30th and 31st. This also included a procurement training delivered to country teams on May 31st. This training was part of the CIWA program to enhance capacity among countries in the HoA GW4R project. Financial Management 14. The Financial management performance is evaluated as Satisfactory IGAD submitted its IFR for the period ending 15th February 2024, which was accepted by the Bank. The 2023 audit submission that is due by 30th June 2024 and should be submitted within the required deadline. 15. The mission discussed the budget monitoring, risks and coping strategy as well as the progress in audit. The mission recommended the preparation of a prospective budget monitoring sheet detailing the use of IDA financing over the upcoming FY, and the entire remaining lifespan of the project, integrating where applicable, a scenario analysis considering the potential run-out of the budget, making sure some activities which procurement have started can be completed. The sheet would facilitate the planning, timing and disbursement of all expenses, including commitments already approved/contracted (signed) or not, but not yet disbursed (paid), planned but not yet contracted. We recommend that the budget monitoring statement be published at least monthly and incorporated into the future IFRs submitted on a quarterly basis to the Bank. 16. The implementation of this recommendation will be monitored at the submission of the next IFR by 15th of August 2024. The IGAD team noticed the overrun of several line items of the operational budget and indicated the potential runout in the near future. The team also flagged the adverse impact of exchange rate change loss, which has led to a 500k loss in the overall value of the financing as of May 29th, 2024, with further losses foreseen. Potential strategies like expense reductions, activity re-scaling, budget reshuffling and fund opportunities were discussed. The external audit of the project has been completed and audit report will submit to the World Bank before June 30, 2024. Internal audit will be conducted on Sept/Oct 2024 as part of the annual audit. 4 Environmental & Social Risk Management 17. The environmental and social is rated as MS. The mission noted that IGAD has undertaken environmental and social (E&S) risk management activities since commencement of the project. These include assigning E&S focal persons, undertaking capacity building trainings on E&S risk management, preparing and disclosed a Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA), incorporating E&S requirements in the Dawa transboundary aquifer feasibility study Terms of Reference (ToR) and also in other ToRs, and onboarding third-party monitoring firm with E&S monitoring activities incorporated as part of its scope of work. Overall, there is some progress in implementation of the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP). 18. Further improvement on E&S risk management of project activities shall be achieved through (i) incorporating E&S requirements in all ToRs prepared for consultancy services, capacity building trainings, and any other technical assistance activities under the project, (ii) submit guidelines, manuals, modules, and studies prepared through the project to the WB E&S team for review on E&S aspects, (iii) share with member states and follow-up on implementation of the Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA), and (iv) prepare and submit regular ESHS performance reports. 19. The mission agreed IGAD to take careful consideration of GBV in the context of workplace sexual harassment. IGAD’s 2018 Sexual Harassment Policy, as annexed to the project SEP, was discussed. However, it was noted that issues of GBV related to sexual exploitation and abuse between project staff/workers and project stakeholders still need to be addressed in the project instruments and implementation, ensuring a survivor-centered approach. The mission also noted ESF/ESS2 provisions that the process for handling project worker grievances needs to be established as a separate mechanism from the project-wide GRM, and that IGAD should either build upon its existing IGAD procedure for handling employee/staff grievances, supplementing it with provisions aligned with ESS2, or establish a new separate stand-alone worker grievance mechanism in line with ESS2 and ESS10 paragraph 26. 20. The mission also asked that IGAD ensure that all future quarterly progress reports include content, such as dates, locations, names of organizations/ stakeholders consulted, specific trainings and other activities undertaken, and other relevant specific information to demonstrate concrete progress in meeting ESCP commitments and as well as challenges in project performance. To ensure effective operation of the project GRM, the mission also requested that IGAD confirm the date when the GRM became operational, and to provide regular updates in the quarterly reports on numbers and types of grievances received and how these have been processed and resolved in a timely manner. The mission suggested the detailed explanation on the country engagement (including both training and recurring meetings) in the report. The updates on social specialists should also be noted in either of the progress reports to be submitted in June 2024. The updated ESHS report is expected to be submitted on June 7th, 2024. D. NEXT STEPS 21. The mission agreed on the key steps included in Annex 1. The next mission is to be scheduled between November and December 2024 in coordination with ISM for the next four countries under this regional project. ANNEX 1. IGAD GW4R NEXT STEPS AND KEY MILESTONES 5 TASK DUE DATE Assigned to Component 1. Groundwater Information and Knowledge WB to seek updates from the Kenya team & IGAD to prepare the Mid-June, 2024 IGAD & WB next steps towards MOU signature. Prepare conceptual diagram/roadmap comparing the status and Mid-June, 2024 IGAD roles of regional GWIS and other existing data platforms. Complete GWIS development End-July, 2024 IGAD Prepare and share the IGAD regional event summary report as IGAD June 13th, 2024 well as slides, posters, and photos Prepare a report of the procurement inconsistencies between IGAD June 4t , 2024 International and National consultants for the JRS Submit ToR for National (Somalia) and international consultants IGAD June 3rd, 2024 for JRS Conduct Kenya training session on Resilient Boreholes and IGAD June 28th , 2024 groundwater data Component 2. Groundwater Institutional Capacity Finalize the report and conduct validation workshop on IGAD June 30th , 2024 harmonized guideline for resilient borehole Agree on the organization of arrangement for the stakeholder IGAD meetings for the feasibility study in the next National Focal June 10th, 2024 Group meeting (June 10th) Agree with UNESCO regarding the expected outputs of the IGAD End-June , 2024 harmonization of the hydrogeological and geological maps Preparation of procurement process for Shabelle TBA Feasibility June 3rd, 2024 IGAD Study – report of the technical proposal to be shared with WB Preparation of procurement process for Northern Basement TBA End-June, 2024 IGAD feasibility study – report of the technical proposal to be shared with WB Component 3. Regional Integration and Collaboration Distribute a letter from IGAD to all MS regarding TPM with the June 7th , 2024 IGAD list of TPMA national staff Submit the agenda and proposal for the next Regional event based Mid-June, 2024 IGAD on the reflection and feedback of the past Regional events. Submit advertisement of the consultant for preparing IGAD water Mid-June, 2024 IGAD forum (in May 2025) Identify the participants, presenters, and partners for the IGAD October, 2024 IGAD water forum Collect capacity building plans from each MS July , 2024 WB&IGAD ESF 6 Submit updated ESHS report June 7th , 2024 IGAD Establish separate Grievance mechanism for project workers End June, 2024 IGAD Submit to the WB E&S team guidelines, manuals, modules, and Once the documents are IGAD studies prepared through the project for review on E&S aspects drafted Share with member states and follow-up on implementation of the IGAD June 7th , 2024 Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA) Prepare and submit regular ESHS performance reports Include IGAD dates, locations, parties and other relevant content details in these June 7th , 2024 and reports, to demonstrate project progress in line with the ESCP and ongoing/Bi-annual ESF, and to submit these in a timely manner Revise the project-wide GRM to address handling of GBV/Sexual IGAD Exploitation and Abuse complaints in relation to interactions between IGAD workers/personnel and third parties/stakeholders, End-June , 2024 ensuring a survivor-centered approach. Procurement Accelerate selection process of remaining contracts and diligently Dec.15th , 2024 IGAD monitor all contracts – updates to be provided to the WB Update and improve data recording in STEP, including on Aug. 15th , 2024 IGAD contract management. Prepare a timeline for upcoming procurement related activities June 7th , 2024 IGAD Financial Management Submission of budget plans including the projection of the June. 5th , 2024 IGAD disbursement and procurement for the upcoming FY (July 1 2024- June 30 2025) Provide disbursement projections, quarterly, for entire project June 7th , 2024 IGAD duration Agree on the strategies for addressing budget constraint Mid-June, 2024 IGAD&WB Submission of the next IFR Aug. 15th , 2024 IGAD Submission of audit report June 30th , 2024 IGAD Internal audit as part of the annual audit Sep-Oct , 2024 IGAD Project Management and other Assess gaps in gender issues for the national projects July, 2024 IGAD&WB Prepare list of activities, objectives, and timeline to be achieved June 7th , 2024 IGAD for FY25 7 ANNEX 2. LIST OF IGAD MISSION PARTICIPANTS Name Organization Department Title/Designation IGAD SECRETARIAT Ibrahim Mohamed IGAD IGAD Water Unit (WU) Hydrogeologist (Project Coordinator) Sagal Souleiman Iman IGAD IGAD WU Project Assistant Khadija Mohamed IGAD IGAD WU Project Officer Igbal Salah ICPAC ICPAC/IGAD Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist Mequanent Wondie IGAD IGAD WU Project Accountant Abdulhafeez Saeed IGAD IGAD WU Finance Officer Dawaleh Moussa IGAD IGAD WU Project Assistant Gilbert Aluoch IGAD IGAD WU M&E Specialist 8 ANNEX 3. AGENDA OF THE IGAD REGIONAL LEARNING EVENT Horn of Africa (HoA) Groundwater for Resilience: 3rd IGAD Regional Learning Event Strengthening Project Impact: Regional Collaboration, Contract Management, and Environmental Considerations May 27-29, 2024, Nairobi, Kenya. Trademark Hotel (Village Market) Two-day FIDIC training will follow (May 30-31) This workshop is a five-day learning event that brings together stakeholders from IGAD member states and lead international experts to address key challenges and opportunities for sustainable groundwater (GW) management and collaboration in the Horn of Africa (HoA). The event is part of a series of knowledge sharing and learning events organized by IGAD in the context of the regional HoA Groundwater for Resilience Program (GW4R), which involves Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and IGAD, and aims at increasing the region’s sustainable access and management of groundwater resources towards climate resilience. The workshop will provide a regional platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and strategic planning, highlighting the pivotal role of cross-country collaboration. Participants will engage in practice- oriented sessions and interactive discussions covering three main topics: (a) deepening regional collaboration in the context of the GW4R Program; (b) strengthening capacity on groundwater contract management; and (c) enhancing knowledge on environmental factors to consider as part of groundwater projects’ implementation. The sessions are aimed at strengthening and informing the implementation of GW4R project activities, and at enhancing the regional activities that are being implemented by IGAD in collaboration with participating countries. The main outcome of the Learning Event will be country-specific Action Plans outlining the way in which GW4R countries will integrate the lessons emerging from the event into the GW4R project activities, with a focus on concrete actions to accelerate the program’s implementation and enhance regional collaboration. Day 1 – Enhancing Regional GW4R Collaboration Objective: To initiate and strengthen collaboration among IGAD member states, facilitate discussions on transboundary groundwater management, and establish a foundation for effective data sharing and cooperation in the IGAD region. Outcomes: 9 1. Enhanced Collaboration Commitment: Gain a clear understanding of ongoing and future collaborative initiatives for transboundary groundwater management in the IGAD region and of the role of GW4R countries, towards a strengthened commitment to cooperation. 2. Strategic Planning: The panel discussion and working sessions on joint regional activities will provide a platform for strategic planning, with participating country representatives identifying concrete next steps for the implementation of transboundary GW4R activities. Monday, May 27th Time Agenda Item 8:30 am Participant’s arrival and registration- Sagal, Hawa and Winnie 9:00 - 9:20 Welcome remarks and Launch of MIS - Facilitated by Mekuria Tafesse. (5 min each) • Welcome remarks of Director of Agriculture and Environment, IGAD by Daher Elmi • Welcome remarks of the Host country by Wotuku-Kenya • Opening remarks by World Bank by Ragini Praful Dalal • MIS launch by Irene & Laura -WB Session 1: Enhancing Regional GW4R Collaboration- Facilitated by Mekuria 9:20 – 10:00 A. Update of the HoA Groundwater for Resilience project by country representatives. Presentation & Q&A - Presentations. Brief on two highlights and two challenges of the project since the last regional event (10 mins each) ✓ IGAD, by Ibrahim ✓ Kenya; by Wotuku ✓ Ethiopia; by Dr. Zebene ✓ Somalia; by Mohammed Mukhtar Session 2: Strengthening Regional Partnerships for Groundwater Resilience- Facilitated by Ibrahim 10:05-10:12 A. IGAD’s Role in Trust Building, Peace, and Security through Groundwater Management Co-facilitated by Ibrahim and Daher - Presentation (5mins). IGAD’s strategic approach to using groundwater resources as a tool for trust building and promoting peace and security and enhance cooperation among member states in the region by Daher Elmi 10 10:12-10:25 Panel Discussion (15mins). Kenya (Margaret), Ethiopia (Zebene), Somalia (Mohamed Mukhtar) moderated by IGAD (Ibrahim & Daher) Questions to the Panel • Countries: What are existing good examples showcasing transboundary collaboration on groundwater/water supply schemes (Tog Wajale, Shinille, Moyale, etc), i.e., examples that highlight the benefits of the regional approach? What are some examples of limitations that arise from water scarcity in realizing the context presented by Mr Daher Elmi • Countries: What two specific efforts need to be strengthened to accelerate the implementation of the regional groundwater project? (at the regional project implementation level) (e.g., the role of task forces and PIUs, communication, data and information to be generated, commitment, capacity) • Daher Elmi: Any final reflection on the issues raised by the countries? 10:25-11:00 B. Accelerating project implementation through partnership, data and information, capacity strengthening - IGAD Presentation (10mins). Enhancing regional groundwater collaboration. Vision of IGAD for the regional collaboration on groundwater through the RGWC, mission, progress on current activities (e.g., data collection, capacity building, legal and policy framework, partnership building) by Ibrahim. - WB Presentation (10 mins). Introducing UN partnership with Pillars I, II, III. by Victor/Irene/Noosha - UN Presentation (10 mins). Inception report and Pillars work plans by Sam Godfrey/Alex/Kitka. 11:05-11:20 Coffee break Session 3: Strengthening Regional Collaboration: Progress & opportunities for IGAD Groundwater Databases 11:25-12:15 - Presentation of IGAD GROUNDWATER INFORMATION SYSTEM (GWIS), Nicholas Lombardi (15 mins) - IGAD regional database: Open-source data presentation, Ougas o Gaps and needs of data for enriched database (10 mins) - Options in databases and portals, the examples of IGRAC and SADC, Arnaud Sterckx IGRAC virtually (10 mins) - Pros and cons of various data system, Eleftherios Kaltsas, UNESCO (15mins) 12:15- 13:00 Lunch Break 11 13:05-13:50 - Recap on the Status and opportunities of IGAD GWIS, Marcus Wijnen, (5 mins) - Country Working groups- facilitated by IGAD Ibrahim (40 mins) • How Country can support more efficiently the regional database • What are the expectations & Needs of the countries regarding the next steps on the GWIS (Availability of external data, user interactions, what kind of data is really needed to complement national datasets beyond what t we agree on within the data-sharing procedure, which options of data system proposed are suitable for this IGAD GWIS). • Reflection on the next steps regarding data sharing procedure: an MOU or formal data sharing agreement beyond the life of the project • Action plan and way forward Session 4 : Strengthening Regional Collaboration: Collaborative research 14:00-14:15 - Presentation: Update on the progress of Dawa feasibility study: Ibrahim, IGAD Presentation on the status of the Dawa study Updates on the procurement process of the 2 remaining studies. IGAD or SGI Joint Regional Study (JRS) “Appraisal of Climate Risks on Groundwater Resources in the HoA 14:20-14: 50 C. Joint Regional Study (JRS) “Appraisal of Climate Risks on Groundwater Resources in the HoA”: Action Plan by Marcus/Igbal) • Presentation by Chrysanthus Gicheruh, and Sintayehu Legesse Inception report presentation by the 2 consultants. (10 min each consultant) o work progress o challenges, data needs and sources o work plans 14:55-15:20 Presentation on Remote sensing and Recharge estimation methods in arid climate condition, Alan MacDonald, British Geological Survey & Bridget Scanlon, University of Texas 15:20-16:20 Working groups to discuss: a. Methodology and Aquifer selection discussion b. Action plan in each of the countries based on challenges discussed (Q: How to enhance implementation efficiency?) 16:20-17:00 Action plan and discussion of the way forward 17:20 Closing Day 1 by Ibrahim 12 Day 2 & 3– Strengthening Project Impact: Technical, Environmental, and Gender Considerations Objective: 1. Understand how environmental impacts of borehole development are currently being addressed in project implementation and identify actions for strengthening. Objective 2. Identify progress and challenges on strengthening water management/governance and engagement of community members, particularly women and marginalised groups. Tuesday, May 28th 8.30 -9:00 Welcome and Objectives (ALL participants) •Key lessons from Regional Day, One Country representative. • IGAD Ibrahim • Ethiopia rep Session 1. Key Environmental Considerations in ground water development 9:00 –9.15 A. General environmental considerations in siting of boreholes, Abdiraham Abass, FCDC Presentation (10 mins). Importance of considering: grazing areas, mobility and migration routes, promoting multiple water points for different uses, land use and water planning. 9.15-9.30 B. Technical environmental considerations in water scheme siting, Seifu Kebede Gurmessa, WB/Sam Godfrey, UNDP Presentation (10 mins). Aquifer and salinity assessments, pock marks/balis, 9.30-9.45 C. Technical environmental considerations in scheme design and operation, Cliff Nyaga, WB/ Sam Godfrey, UNDP Presentation (10mins). Conjunctive use, recharge, pump limitations, closure during wet seasons, expansion during drought, sanitation 9.45-10 D. General environmental considerations in scheme design and operation, Guyo Malicha, CGIAR Presentation (10 min). Prevention of degradation and settlement around water points: capping of water points during wet seasons/by laws/rotas/differential tariffs/ land use planning etc. 10-10.20 Q&A 10.20-10.40 Coffee Session 2: Strengthening environmental considerations in country implementation: action planning 10.40-11.30 Group discussion: Country teams group discussion on how consideration of environmental impacts can be enhanced in project (update presentation and action plan). Resource persons: Kenya: Abass and Sam Ethiopia: Guyo, Seifu Somalia: Vanessa, Cliff 11.30-12 Country Presentations by environmental specialists (10 min each). How key environmental impacts are being considered/ addressed and plan for strengthening in the project process (highlight critical issue from session and how will take forward) 13 - Kenya - Ethiopia - Somalia 12.00-13.00 A. Progress on active engagement of women in water point management, Charles Gilman, WB - Presentation (10 min): - Country progress, plans and challenges by gender specialists (10 mins each), - Discussion and action planning (with PollEv) 13.00-14.00 Lunch Break Session 3. Key Environmental & Technical Considerations on water point management. 14.00-15.00 B. Addressing challenges in water point management: Introduction to session: Vanessa Presentation by countries: Progress and update on water management model challenges and strengthening measures: Country presentations (10 mins each) Kenya rep Ethiopia rep Somalia rep Discussion and way forward: Cliff Nyaga WB, Kitka Goyol, UNICEF 15.00-16.00 C. Government capacity building • Klas Sandstrom, (virtual) and Dahir Mohammed Noor in person – Capacity building plan from Somalia – lessons learned for regional scale-up (Content/Approach; Mentoring and Cap Net) - • Quick survey on Capacity needs (PollEv) • Breakout group discussion – bringing the plan into implementation. 16.00- 16:15 Coffee Break 16:15-16:45 Prepare action plans and presentations for Day 2 (ready to finalise and send to Sagal and Mi after innovations cafe) on Day 3 17:00 Closing of the Day Parallel session: PSC/TAC meeting for IGAD PROJECT 10:15-12:15 Presentation of IGAD work plan: Ibrahim Discussion Conclusion and recommendation on the work plan Wednesday, May 29th 8:30 -9:00 Welcome: Key lessons from Day 2, Country representatives (ALL participants) • IGAD Ibrahim introduces. • Somalia rep with PPT Session 1. Groundwater salinity guideline and analysis. 9:00-10:00 A. Groundwater salinity guideline and analysis, Seifu Kebede Gurmessa, WB 14 - Presentation (10 min). Introducing the groundwater salinity guideline and analysis. - Training/Exercise (30 min). Training/exercise on quality assurance and control for testing - Group discussion/reflection (20 min). Action Plan for factoring in siting (20mins). PollEv Survey for participants’ reflection/inputs 9:00-10:00 IGAD/OSC/TAC: Presentation of the IGAD project: Progress and Plan and discussion, Ibrahim (Parallel session) Session 2. Innovations Café & Meet the Extended Team 10:00-10:15 Overview of Innovations café - parts 1 and 2, Vanessa 10-10.50 A. Innovations café/poster session – part 1 Country teams – visit different booths around the room for 10 mins and then move with bell (5 booths each). Overview, importance/usefulness for GW4R implementation and how could it be done 1. A closer look at aquifers - Groundwater physical model demonstration Mi Lin, Ethiopia 2. Water quality and aquifer assessment maps, Seifu Kebede Gurmessa, Kenya 1 3. Mapping of water recharge potential, Phyllis Wambui Wachira, Kenya 2 4. Comparison between private and community models: Adam Abdulkadir and Isak Jalafey, Save the Children, Somalia 1 5. Tools for increasing water security and promote drought resilience: experience from Angola, Marcus Wijnen, Somalia 2 10.50-11.05 Coffee Break 11.05-12 B. Meet the extended team- Part 2 Participants visit different booths around the room for 10 mins each, roles and workplans 1. UNDP: Sam Godfrey, Judith Musilu, Ethiopia 2. UNESCO: Florence Tanui, Kenya 1 3. UNICEF: Kitka Goyal, Kenya 2 4. TPM: Noosha Tayebi, WB and from BDO, Somalia 1 a) Hesborne Ochieng Ocholla, Program Manager b) Chandler Klein, Contract Manager c) Raymond Muteti, Finance Specialist d) Sena Kinati, Physical Monitoring Coordinator 5. MIS: Laura Lahoz Gonzalez and Tino Raphael Nabib Toupane, WB, Somalia 2 12.00-13.00 Country teams share key observations and recommendations and include in action planning Finalise action planning and presentations and submit to Sagal/Mi ready to project 13.00-14.00 Lunch Break 15 14-15 Each country present 1 priority action/commitment on each theme before next meeting: environmental considerations, water management strengthening, gender, capacity building - 10 mins each using the template 15:00- 16:00 Priorities and plans for next 6 months: Victor Vazquez Presentation and Q&A 16:00-16.30 Review of the event including priorities for next event, issues to be covered for future in innovation cafe/newsletter etc. Mekuria Tafesse 16:30-17 Closing of the event, Ibrahim (ALL participants), group photo Day Annex 4 Implementation Support Mission Agenda (May 30th) 16 IGAD Horn of Africa Groundwater for Resilience Implementation Support Mission Agenda May 30th, 2024 - Nairobi, Kenya World Bank Office, Delta Centre, Menengai Road, Nairobi. Room 11-65 Item Lead Mission materials Procurement progress update Mission objectives and expected Victor Vazquez, TTL, WB outcomes Ibrahim Mohamed, IGAD Update on IGAD Work Plan progress: Ibrahim Mohamed • Updated annual work plan • Overall progress since the Ahmed, IGAD Project • Updated annual budget November 2023 ISM and key Coordinator; IGAD team • Updated timetable for upcoming implementation issues members activities in the next 6 months • Annual Work Plan and Budget for the Project • Approach for the coordination of regional activities Update on procurement plan: Abdulhafeez Saeed, • Updated procurement plan • Status of Preparation for • Summary of the status of Components 1,2 and 3 procurement packages and bidding • STEP status documents for the next 6 months Coffee break IGAD-PLATFORM FOR GROUNDWATER COLLABORATION National Focal Group: Ibrahim Mohamed • Data are required for JRS, FS, GWIS • How to make it more inclusive and Ahmed • MOU requires face-to-face discussion. alive How facilitate this (fund) • How important milestones can be achieved (MOU, DATA SHARING AGREEMENT) • What strategies shall be adopted for more engagement of MS • Making alive groundwater Centers(Launch day for GWIS in Nairobi, Convening others center) Feasibility studies of 3 TBA & JRS Ibrahim Mohamed • Funds and support to be requested • Progress and challenges of the Ahmed, • More physical workshops to follow ongoing feasibility studies and Iqbal Salah the progress inclusively with JRS. Taskforce 17 • Somalia’s Consultant drop the • Face-to-face workshop for JRS assignement: Wayforward (potentially in June) • Specific areas where support is required. • How can we organize more workshop? GWIS & Pillar I • What can be done beyond assistance regarding database. • When can we have access to data from , UNESCO, UNDP database Lunch Regional Capacity Building: Ibrahim Mohamed, • Outcomes of regional event • Next steps on Topics IGAD discussion • Field works requested by MS Klas Sandstrom, WB • Action Plan Coffee break 3rd IGAD water forum Ibrahim Mohamed, Slides with general suggestions of the • Academics or general forum IGAD forum program • Expected outcomes • Roles of UN-agencies for financially support (Pillar I,II) TPM : coordination Regional Event budget and IBRAHIM organization Environmental and Social updates Ibrahim, Gilbert, Greg Follow up on the reporting and any other and Tamru/Samson E&S Agreed Actions and Next Steps: Ibrahim, IGAD Review of Table with Agreed Actions Noosha, WB 18 Annex 5 Selected Survey Results (May 27-31) Fig. 1 Origins of the Participants Fig. 2 Session feedback on each day (Question: Did you find the session interesting/informative?) From left to right: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4&5 Fig. 3 Keywords for sessions (from left to right Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4&5) Fig. 4 Suggestions/Comments for the Event Fig. 5 Priorities participants suggested for the next event 19 Fig. 6 Future training/Capacity Building/Technical discussion that were expected by the participants Annex 6 Selected photos Fig. 1 Photo collages about the event, including presentations, training, group work, exercise, and action plan sharing Fig. 2 Poster session, including groundwater physical model, and comments and reflections 20